Membrane Estrogen Receptor Regulation of Hypothalamic Function

Over the decades, our understanding of estrogen receptor (ER) function has evolved. Today we are confronted by at least two nuclear ERs, ER alpha and ER beta, and a number of putative membrane ERs, including ER alpha, ER beta, ER-X, GPR30 and Gq-mER. These receptors all bind estrogens or at least estrogenic compounds and activate intracellular signaling pathways. In some cases, a well-defined pharmacology and physiology has been discovered. In other cases, the identity or the function remains to be elucidated. This mini-review attempts to synthesize our understanding of 17 beta-estradiol membrane signaling within hypothalamic circuits involved in homeostatic functions, focusing on reproduction and energy balance. Copyright (C) 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel